Why Looking Beyond A1c Can Improve Your Diabetes Management
1. Time in Range
One of the most important things a T1D dietitian or T2D dietitian might suggest you focus on is time in range (TIR). This term refers to the amount of time your blood sugar stays within the ideal range, which is typically between 70 and 180 mg/dL. Some experts including Diabetes Educators recommend even tighter control such as 70 to 140 mg/dL to reduce the risk of complications.
Why is time in range so important? Well, research shows that the more time you spend within this target range, the better your A1c will likely be. When you maintain steady blood sugar levels, you’re less likely to experience the high and low fluctuations that can cause long-term health issues. Essentially, focusing on your time in range rather than just your A1c is a great way to build a strong foundation for long-term diabetes management.
2. Average Blood Sugar
Another key factor that both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes dietitians emphasize is your average blood sugar. This is different from A1c which is just an average over a couple of months and focuses on keeping your daily averages steady. Ideally, people with diabetes aim for an average blood sugar in the low 130s or even better in the 120s.
When you maintain this kind of average, it helps keep your A1c in the low 6s. While A1c is a reflection of your blood sugar control over time, focusing on your average daily blood sugar can give you more immediate feedback on how well your diabetes management plan is working.
Bonus: Standard Deviation
In addition to time in range and average blood sugar, there’s another factor known as standard deviation. This is a measure of how much your blood sugar fluctuates. If your standard deviation is low (ideally under 40), that means your blood sugar levels aren’t bouncing around too much. Managing fluctuations is key to maintaining stable blood sugars and minimizing the risk of complications.
Holistic Approach to Diabetes Management
By balancing these three factors, people with diabetes can better manage their blood sugars and improve their quality of life. This approach is something that many diabetes dietitians and Diabetes Educators focus on when helping their patients.
Rather than simply chasing an A1c of 7, a Type 1 diabetes dietitian or Type 2 diabetes dietitian will work with you to build a personalized plan that helps you stay in range, manage your blood sugars, and keep your overall health in check. This holistic approach leads to more sustainable and effective diabetes management, helping you live a full, healthy life while keeping complications at bay.
